held at the Holiday Inn, and is where the winners are given their prize money. Melanie
and my Mom were also in attendance, so it was very neat they were able to partake in
the final chapter of the race.

Eric Morris won the race and was into Marquette just over 8 hours prior to me. Had the
storm not slowed us down to a crawl, I think that I could have finished 6 hours behind
the leading teams. Overall, I was very pleased with how the weekend played itself out.

The last, but not least, award given was the Red Lantern Award. The team that crosses
the finish line last is awarded a shiny red lantern to honor the "stick-toativnous" that is
shown. I was honored by being the 2009 recipient. For all the other mushers in that
race, winning was the goal. Mine however, was to able to be called a veteran.

Throughout the weekend, I met hoards of wonderful individuals that volunteered their
time and effort to facilitate the City of Marquette and the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog
Association in putting this race on. They donate everything to allow the mushers to have
such a world class event. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all that
donated or volunteered to help me reach my goals. Without the UP 200, an Iditarod
running would be much more difficult.

I would like to take a moment to specifically thank one person and organization for their
constant and unwavering support to the race. Mr. Jim Reevs, and the Mining Journal
Newspaper, are the Charter Lead Dog sponsors for the race. I had the unique
opportunity to spend sometime chatting with Mr. Reevs, and it is apparent to me why
the Mining Journal is such a beloved and intrinsic part of the Marquette community. Mr.
Reevs spoke at the breakfast, and his mention of me was overwhelming to say the least.
I can not thank him enough for either his race support or his support of my quest.

Throughout the weekend, I contemplated this journey. Absurd was the only word that I
could come up with to adequately describe the experience. The word I thought about
most though, was Melanie. She has put up with an awful lot this winter, with more to
come next winter. I know I have said it in the past, but without her support and
encouragement, I would be listed as a scratch on the official roster.

Thanks to everyone: From the volunteers, to handlers, to Mr. Reevs, to Melanie. Thanks.